The short explanation
In IUI, intrauterine insemination, the husband gives a semen sample which is washed and concentrated in the lab. Around the time of ovulation, the doctor passes a thin, soft tube through the cervix and places the sperm directly into the womb. It takes a few minutes and most women describe it as similar to a smear test: some cramping or discomfort, but rarely severe pain. Many clinics suggest trying a few IUI cycles before reviewing the plan, because the chance in any single cycle is modest.
What depends on your situation
The parts of this that change from woman to woman. Uncertainty is stated, not hidden.
- IUI usually needs at least one open, healthy tube and reasonable sperm numbers. It is often used for mild male factor, unexplained infertility or problems with timing or intercourse.
- It may be done in a natural cycle or with ovulation medicines, with follicle scans to time it.
- Costs vary widely between government hospitals and private clinics. Ask for the full cost per cycle, including scans, medicines and sperm preparation. Success also depends on age and the cause of infertility, so ask the clinic for their figures for couples like you.
What this answer cannot determine
The boundary of online education. These need a clinician who can see you.
- This answer cannot tell whether IUI is the right choice for you or what your chances are. That depends on both partners' test results and your age.
Questions for your clinician
Take these with you. You can add any of them to an appointment card.
- Why is IUI suitable for us rather than trying naturally or IVF?
- How many cycles would you suggest before we review?
- What is the full cost per cycle?
- What are your success figures for couples of our age and situation?
When to seek help
Clinician-approved guidance for this topic. When in doubt, being seen is never the wrong choice.
Book an appointment soon
- See a doctor within a few days if you have fever, severe pelvic pain or unusual discharge after IUI.
Raise it at a routine appointment
- Book a routine visit to go over the plan and costs before starting.
Sources
The evidence this explanation is built on.
- Infertility NHS
- Infertility MedlinePlus (NIH)
- Infertility World Health Organization
Who wrote and reviewed this
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- Author
- AskHer Editorial (AI-assisted draft) AskHer's editorial team — not an individual clinician Works in English, தமிழ், हिन्दी
- Clinical reviewer
- Nobody yet No clinician has signed this answer off, and no person on the editorial team has read it yet. That is what the “Written with AI assistance” label means. It is queued for an editor to read, and then for a clinician who works in this area. The sources it was drafted against are listed above.
- Review status
- Written with AI assistance — not yet reviewed by a person
- Last reviewed
- Not yet reviewed by a person
- Version
- 1
Correction history
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No corrections have been made since this answer was first published.
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